Business

3 Reasons to Interview for a Job You Don't Want

In an economy in which full-time opportunities are scarce, many job seekers have adopted a "take what you can get" attitude, accepting any interview they're offered in the hopes of landing a position rather than holding out for their dream job. Although a candidate may be qualified for a certain job, taking an interview doesn't necessarily mean his or her heart is set on that position.

While you shouldn't waste your time (or the employer's time) applying to and interviewing for a job in which you have no interest, you may find yourself submitting your resume for opportunities that are less than perfect for you. If your next interview is for a job you're not fully sold on, here are three reasons to give it your all anyway.

It Could Give You Leverage

Employers will be able to tell right away if they are your second (or third, or fourth) choice. No matter how you feel about the position, treat it as if it were your first choice, and give it your all.

"If you're going to take an interview, always be going for the offer, even if the interviewer seems crazy or irritating," said Shon Burton, CEO of recruitment tool HiringSolved.

Though you may end up turning it down, getting a job offer may give you leverage if another company offers you a position, particularly if the first one wants to give you a higher salary.

Practice Makes Perfect

Even if you don't particularly want the job, your interview can still be valuable to you. If you have a few interviews in a row lined up, use the ones you're less interested in as a chance to practice for the interview that matters most to you.

"If you're looking to practice your interview skills, approach the situation as if you're in a review," said Bill Peppler, managing partner of staffing service provider Kavaliro. "Describe your strengths and what you bring to the table, but also ask a lot of questions about what the employer is looking for in a candidate to fill the position."

You Just Might Like It

Before you go into any interview, regardless of how much or how little you want the job, resist the urge to make a snap judgment. You may end up being pleasantly surprised at what the company (and the role itself) has to offer.

"Don't decide you don't really like it in five minutes," Burton said.

See the interview through until the end before making a decision about whether you want the job. While you should always try to make a good impression on the employer, remember to give the employer a chance to make a good impression on you, too.

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